[Kim Jaeho's Life Story]<241> If You Often Suffer from Conjunctivitis

Eye diseases include serious conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts, which often lead to blindness. There are also relatively common diseases that cause discomfort in daily life, such as dry eye syndrome (ocular dryness), conjunctivitis, and keratitis.

The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent mucous membrane that covers the inside of the eyelids and the white part of the eye (sclera),

containing many tiny blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. It supplies mucus and tears to protect and lubricate the eye, prevents microorganisms or foreign substances from entering the eye, and performs immune surveillance functions. Because the conjunctiva is exposed to the outside, it is easily invaded by microorganisms or comes into contact with substances, making it prone to inflammation. This inflammation of the conjunctiva is called conjunctivitis.

When affected by conjunctivitis, the eyes become itchy, red, and feel dry or gritty. Vision may become blurry, the conjunctiva may swell, and tears may increase more than usual. Green or white discharge may appear in the eyes, and especially after sleeping, thick yellow discharge can form crusts on the eyelashes, making it uncomfortable to open the eyes.

Conjunctivitis can be caused by various factors, including infections by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi; allergic reactions triggered by environmental factors like pollen or chemical irritants; and irritation caused by chemicals or foreign substances. Symptoms and treatment methods vary depending on the cause. Among conjunctivitis cases, allergic conjunctivitis affects around 2 million people annually, making it a common condition.

Bacterial conjunctivitis, a type of infectious conjunctivitis caused by bacterial infection, is very common. It usually affects one eye initially but can spread to the other eye through the patient's hands or to other people who come into contact with the patient. Most cases resolve naturally within two weeks, but some may become chronic if untreated. Proper use of antibiotics can lead to easy recovery.

Viral conjunctivitis, caused by viral infections, accounts for most cases of epidemic conjunctivitis that occur frequently in summer. It is generally caused by adenoviruses but can also be caused by various viruses including the varicella-zoster virus. Adenoviruses are highly contagious for two weeks after symptom onset, so contact with patients should be avoided, and family members should use separate towels, soap, and bedding.

Since viruses are not treatable with antibiotics, avoiding contact with infected individuals during viral outbreaks is important for prevention. If the patient experiences severe swelling or pain, cold compresses can help alleviate symptoms. Wearing sunglasses outdoors can reduce glare and discomfort.

Allergic conjunctivitis affects both eyes and usually recurs seasonally as a reaction to allergens such as pollen. It is frequent and chronic in nature. Typical symptoms include red and itchy eyes, severe itching, foreign body sensation, photophobia, tearing, sneezing, runny nose, and conjunctival hyperemia.

Common allergens causing allergic conjunctivitis include pollen, house dust mites, and animal fur. Other triggers include food, grass, dust, mold, cosmetics, soap, shampoo, and synthetic fibers. Most allergens are not harmful substances but cause symptoms due to hypersensitive immune responses. Avoiding allergens generally helps alleviate most symptoms.

Irritant conjunctivitis occurs when chemical substances splash into the eyes or foreign bodies enter the eyes and are washed out. Symptoms usually resolve within a day. However, if symptoms persist or if the chemical is a corrosive substance like caustic soda, it can cause permanent eye damage, so prompt consultation with a specialist is necessary.

Except for allergic conjunctivitis, other types of conjunctivitis occur when the conjunctiva is infected by harmful microorganisms or exposed to harmful substances. Therefore, most cases can be prevented by avoiding infection and exposure to irritants.

Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by hypersensitive immune responses, which result from weak immunity. In the short term, identifying and avoiding personal allergens can be helpful. In the long term, maintaining optimal immunity by living a pro-life lifestyle called Newstart (refer to Life Story Part 6), which promotes proper gene expression for the body's top medical expert to perform its role well, is the best approach.

Additionally, according to the "hygiene hypothesis," balancing type 1 helper T cells and type 2 helper T cells, which are types of immune cells, is important. Reducing Western lifestyle factors such as diet, urban environment, and antibiotic use that activate type 1 helper T cells, while increasing exposure to large families, rural living, and animal contact that activate type 2 helper T cells, can improve the immune environment. This approach can help prevent and treat various allergies, including allergic conjunctivitis.